Oriental Rugs
Oriental rugs vary depending on their origin. Persian, Caucasian, Chinese, and European (French, English) rugs represent a timeless form of art and cultural expression.
When stripped of this age-old mystique, these rugs have a few distinctive features. First, all Oriental and Persian rugs are made of natural fibers such as wool, cotton, or silk. These fibers are hand-spun into various threads and yarns, which are then hand-knotted or flat woven to produce unique patterns and designs.
Each rug's design, pattern, and construction pays tribute to the specific geographic location in which the rug was produced like the Near East, Middle East, Far East, and the Balkans.
These individual knots make up the thick, plush, surface, or pile, of the rug. The number of knots per inch generally signals the durability and value of the rug. Most importantly, no two hand-knotted rugs are alike.
There is no way to make an identical duplicate of a hand-knotted rug!
Flat-woven carpets are produced on large wooden looms where a master weaver will tie vertical pieces of yarn (warps) and then cross horizontal weave pieces of yarn (wefts). Wefts are then compressed to create patterns within the rug. Unlike hand-knotted rugs, flat-woven rugs have no pile.
Quality Persian and Oriental rugs, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. Genuine rugs are often passed as heirlooms from one generation to the next.
Naturally, when considering a purchase of such significance, a client should have a grasp of the factors which affect the durability and value of a rug. With the beginner in mind, Rugs of Nations has composed a short list with some introductory suggestions and recommendations. Beginners and collectors alike should contact gallery staff if you have additional questions.
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Oriental Rugs' Design
Once upon a time, a rug's design could identify the country in which it was manufactured.
The design itself was just like a bar code. However, as the world has become increasingly globalized in trade, the distinct lines of production have blurred.
Artists borrow inspiration from the world around them. This includes the once geographically distinct patterns and styles of the rugs from other lands. Popular designs have been adapted for reproduction and mass manufacturing.
It may require an expert eye to identify a rug's origin. But you should never worry about questioning your rug consultant about the design and origin of the rug. Furthermore, any fine rug gallery should be willing to stand behind their product as both genuine and authentic. At Rugs of Nations, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
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